Design

DSDC is the world leader on the design of services and environments for people with dementia.

The Centre has been invaluable in supplying both learning opportunities and research based evidence to support our endeavours to provide a dementia friendly environment within the acute hospital setting

Senior Nurse

Older Adult Practice Development

Video

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Niall McLaughlin speaks about the importance of dementia-friendly environments

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The importance of:

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Why DSDC?

For over 25 years DSDC’s multidisciplinary team of clinical specialists, architects and designers have been promoting the importance of design for people with dementia. We have developed a unique insight into what can be done to support people with dementia, based on research and evidence of what makes a difference.

What we do

Why design matters

Design is about more than shaping the physical environment to counter the impairments which come with dementia. It involves addressing standards, practices and behaviours of professional staff and changing the way people with dementia are engaged with in the environments in which they live.

Age-related changes and impairments can make it more difficult to understand and navigate the built environment. These can be sensory, mobility or cognitive impairments, and sometimes a combination, which can affect functioning, behaviour, independence, and ultimately, quality of life. Understanding such impairments is the first step towards creating living environments which support the needs of older people and those with dementia, keeping them safe from dangers such as falls, which can have a devastating effect on an older person; allowing the freedom and confidence to use their abilities to the fullest extent, in all things from the mundane to the creative; aiding memory in day-to-day living; and reinforcing personal identity.

Evidence shows what delivers dementia-friendly design:

Specialist knowledge and advice is key at all stages of any redesign or development

Addressing physical issues such lighting, colour contrast, signage, textures and sensory stimulation is not enough on its own

Tackling service and physical change together delivers better results

Technology and adaptations – many of them inexpensive – can have a positive impact

Using the arts as an integral part of design can offer lasting benefits for people with dementia

Improving the care environment has a direct link to improved care standards and enhanced reputation.